Pawar Hospital

Spire Hospital

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Dr Gaurav Pawar is a well established Hip and Knee joint replacement and sports injury (Arthroscopy) surgeon. He has eight years of experience in Trauma & Orthropaedics and has gained considerable knowledge and espertise in this field during this period. He has also worked in Trauma and Orthopaedics in the NHS system in UK for 3 years at reputed hospitals like Royal Free Hospital,London, Chase Farm Hospital, London and Tameside Hospital, Greater Manchester. He has performed numerous joint replacement and arthroscopy surgeries during this period and is well versed with the latest surgical techniques. He has also presented and published many papers at national and international stages.

Knee Arthroscopy

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PCL / MCL / LCL Repair or Reconstruction

PCL, MCL, and LCL are abbreviations for different ligaments in the human body, specifically in relation to the knee joint. Ligaments are strong, fibrous bands of connective tissue that connect bones to other bones, providing stability and support to joints. Each of these ligaments plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and function of the knee joint.

PCL - Posterior Cruciate Ligament:

The Posterior Cruciate Ligament is located inside the knee joint and connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone). It is named "posterior" because it is positioned at the back of the knee joint. The PCL prevents excessive backward movement of the tibia in relation to the femur. It also helps to stabilize the knee when it is flexed (bent). Injuries to the PCL usually occur from a force applied to the front of the knee or due to hyperextension of the knee joint.

MCL - Medial Collateral Ligament:

The Medial Collateral Ligament is situated on the inner side of the knee joint and connects the femur to the tibia. It is responsible for preventing excessive inward movement (valgus stress) of the knee, which can happen when a lateral force is applied to the knee joint. The MCL provides stability to the inner part of the knee. MCL injuries are common in sports that involve sudden changes in direction or direct blows to the outer side of the knee.

LCL - Lateral Collateral Ligament:

The Lateral Collateral Ligament is located on the outer side of the knee joint and connects the femur to the fibula (the smaller bone of the lower leg). It functions similarly to the MCL but provides stability against excessive outward movement (varus stress) of the knee. LCL injuries are less common than MCL injuries and often result from forces pushing the knee inward.

When one or more of these ligaments are injured, it can lead to knee instability, pain, swelling, and difficulty in walking or bearing weight. Treatment for ligament injuries can range from conservative measures such as rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy, to more severe cases requiring surgical intervention. Proper rehabilitation is crucial to restore knee function and prevent long-term complications. If you suspect a knee ligament injury, it's essential to seek medical attention for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Do's for PCL Repair or Reconstruction

  • Follow Pre-operative Instructions: Adhere to your surgeon's pre-operative guidelines, which may include fasting instructions and medication restrictions.
  • Prepare Your Home: Make sure your home is safe and accessible for your recovery, with clear pathways and assistive devices like crutches.
  • Protect the Operated Knee: Use crutches or other assistive devices as advised by your healthcare team to protect the repaired PCL during the initial recovery phase.
  • Comply with Medications: Take prescribed medications, including pain relievers and antibiotics, as directed to manage pain and prevent infections.

Don'ts for PCL Repair or Reconstruction

  • Overexert Yourself: Avoid putting excessive stress on the repaired PCL during the early stages of recovery. Follow your physical therapist's guidelines and gradually increase activity as advised.
  • Neglect Physical Therapy: Continue with your physical therapy sessions diligently to ensure a successful recovery and reduce the risk of future knee problems.
  • Ignore Signs of Infection: If you experience signs of infection, such as fever, increased redness, swelling, or drainage from the incision, contact your surgeon immediately.
  • Engage in High-Impact Activities: Avoid high-impact exercises or activities that may put strain on the repaired PCL.

Do's for MCL/LCL Repair or Reconstruction

  • Follow Pre-operative Instructions: Adhere to your surgeon's pre-operative guidelines, which may include fasting instructions and medication restrictions.
  • Prepare Your Home: Make sure your home is safe and accessible for your recovery, with clear pathways and assistive devices like crutches.
  • Protect the Operated Knee: Use crutches or other assistive devices as advised by your healthcare team to protect the repaired MCL/LCL during the initial recovery phase.
  • Comply with Medications: Take prescribed medications, including pain relievers and antibiotics, as directed to manage pain and prevent infections.

Don'ts for MCL/LCL Repair or Reconstruction

  • Overexert Yourself: Avoid putting excessive stress on the repaired MCL/LCL during the early stages of recovery. Follow your physical therapist's guidelines and gradually increase activity as advised.
  • Neglect Physical Therapy: Continue with your physical therapy sessions diligently to ensure a successful recovery and reduce the risk of future knee problems.
  • Ignore Signs of Infection: If you experience signs of infection, such as fever, increased redness, swelling, or drainage from the incision, contact your surgeon immediately.
  • Engage in High-Impact Activities: Avoid high-impact exercises or activities that may put strain on the repaired MCL/LCL.